Genesis 41:57

Authorized King James Version

And all countries came into Egypt to Joseph for to buy corn; because that the famine was so sore in all lands.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
הָאָֽרֶץ׃
And all countries
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#3
בָּ֣אוּ
came
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#4
מִצְרַ֔יְמָה
into Egypt
mitsrajim, i.e., upper and lower egypt
#5
לִשְׁבֹּ֖ר
for to buy
to deal in grain
#6
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
יוֹסֵ֑ף
to Joseph
joseph, the name of seven israelites
#8
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#9
חָזַ֥ק
was so sore
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
#10
הָֽרָעָ֖ב
corn because that the famine
hunger (more or less extensive)
#11
בְּכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#12
הָאָֽרֶץ׃
And all countries
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern narrative literature addressing origins and identity shapes this text's meaning. The development from creation to divine election established God's sovereign care over history Understanding a worldview where divine beings actively governed natural and historical processes helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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